Exploring what causes blood in stool: The connection between gastrointestinal diseases and rectal bleeding

Blood in stool is a common symptom that many people experience at some point in their lives. It can be a sign of a minor issue or a more serious condition, such as a gastrointestinal disease.

Also known as rectal bleeding, it is a concerning symptom that should not be ignored, as it can lead to a medical emergency or a more serious condition if proper medical screening and treatments are not administered.

Gastrointestinal diseases can affect any part of the digestive system and can arise from a range of critical organs including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. Therefore, consulting a doctor specialising in gastroenterology is recommended for proper diagnosis as its severity can vary from mild to life-threatening.

Read on and explore what causes blood in stool and discover the connection between gastrointestinal diseases and rectal bleeding.

What causes blood in stool?

The gastrointestinal system is a complex network of organs, muscles, and nerves that work together to break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste. When something goes wrong with any part of this system, it can result in gastrointestinal diseases that can cause rectal bleeding.

Gastrointestinal infections: Such infections are caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites that can lead to blood in the stool. For example, gastroenteritis caused by E. coli or Salmonella can result in bloody diarrhoea. Other symptoms of gastrointestinal infections may include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Inflammation: Inflammatory diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease can cause blood in the stool. These conditions cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, which can result in ulcers and bleeding. Other symptoms may include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Dietary factors: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can also increase the risk of rectal bleeding. Consuming a diet high in red meat or processed foods has been linked to gastrointestinal issues, which can lead to rectal bleeding. Other lifestyle factors, such as heavy alcohol consumption or smoking, can also contribute to gastrointestinal problems which may cause rectal bleeding.

What is the connection between common gastrointestinal diseases and blood in stool?

Rectal bleeding can be caused as a symptom of a range of gastrointestinal diseases, making it difficult to pinpoint exactly what causes blood in stool without consulting a specialist gastroenterologist.

However, learning more about the symptoms brought about by the most common gastrointestinal diseases and their connection to blood in the stool may help you determine the level of seriousness of the potential condition that you are facing.

Haemorrhoids: One of the most common gastrointestinal diseases, haemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can cause pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements. While haemorrhoids are not a serious condition, they can be uncomfortable and cause significant discomfort.

Anal fissures: This condition arises due to small tears in the skin around the anus that can cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements. These tears can be caused by constipation or diarrhoea.

Diverticulitis: A condition where small pouches in the large intestine become inflamed or infected, which can cause bleeding in the stool. Diverticulitis is often caused by a low-fibre diet and can be prevented by eating a diet rich in fibre.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Another common gastrointestinal condition that can cause blood in the stool. IBD is a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive system, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. These conditions can cause bleeding in the stool, along with other symptoms.

Colon cancer: A type of cancer that develops in the large intestine and can lead to bleeding in the stool, along with other symptoms like abdominal pain, weight loss, and changes in bowel habits. If left untreated, colon cancer can be a life-threatening condition, which is why it is crucial to seek medical attention if you are experiencing any symptoms.

Accurately diagnose what causes blood in stool by consulting a specialist in gastroenterology

Narrowing down the specific area of the gastrointestinal system from where the bleeding originates can offer more information on conditions that can be behind this symptom before you can pursue a treatment option.

The expert knowledge of a medical professional who specialises in gastroenterology is essential in accurately diagnosing and prescribing a suitable treatment for blood in stool and any condition that may be causing this symptom.